Orquesta Akokan

A contemporary Cuban mambo ensemble with roots in Havana’s storied music tradition performs live at the Miami Beach Bandshell. Taking place Saturday, June 13, the concert features Orquesta Akokán, known for revitalizing classic mambo with a modern, high-energy approach. Miami Beach

Formed by producer Jacob Plasse and arranger Michael Eckroth in collaboration with a group of Cuban musicians, Orquesta Akokán blends traditional rhythms with contemporary arrangements, drawing on influences from folkloric and religious music. Their debut album on Daptone Records marked the label’s first Spanish-language release, and the group has since earned international recognition with nominations for a Grammy and multiple Latin music awards.

The performance highlights material from their recordings, including 16 Rayos, which expands on mambo’s foundations with layered instrumentation and evolving rhythmic structures. Presented in an open-air setting, the event offers an opportunity to experience the ensemble’s dynamic sound and dance-oriented repertoire.